Neighbors clash over address dispute amid new construction plans

In a recent government meeting, residents expressed concerns regarding a proposed new home construction that could impact their property values and address designations. One resident, Elizabeth, voiced her strong opposition to a request from her neighbor, Donna Jenkins, and her son, who sought to have Elizabeth change her address if she sells her home. Elizabeth, who has lived in her house for 24 years, stated that she felt pressured during discussions and firmly rejected the idea, fearing it could complicate future property sales.

Elizabeth highlighted her visit to the Pendleton post office, where she learned that it is common for neighboring properties to have similar addresses, which she believed could be a solution to the issue. However, she was surprised to find out during the meeting that her address would still be linked to the new construction, which she argued could deter potential buyers in the future.

Another resident, Rebecca Armstrong, raised questions about the lack of an occupancy permit for an existing barn on the property. She expressed frustration over the permitting process she had to navigate when building her own home and questioned why the barn was allowed to operate without proper inspections. Rebecca's concerns prompted discussions about the county's permitting history and the need for accountability in construction practices.

County officials acknowledged the issues raised, particularly regarding the occupancy permit, explaining that outdated software had hindered their ability to track permits and inspections effectively. They proposed a potential inspection of the barn to address any code issues, although they noted that a complete resolution might be challenging due to the historical nature of the property.

The meeting underscored the complexities of property development and the importance of clear communication between residents and local government, as well as the need for thorough permitting processes to ensure safety and compliance in construction.